BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
NHLANGANO – Twenty desktop computers and other digital equipment worth E325 000 have been donated to Edoropeni Primary School by World Vision Eswatini, giving learners access to a newly equipped computer laboratory.
The equipment was handed over at the school on Thursday during a ceremony officiated by Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo, marking the establishment of a facility aimed at expanding access to digital learning in the community.
The donation includes 20 desktop computers, Uninterruptible Power Supply units, networking equipment and a digital projector. The equipment will enable learners to gain practical exposure to information and communication technology as they prepare for an increasingly digital learning and working environment.
The development follows a community-led process in which the school committee identified the need for a computer laboratory and engaged existing government development structures to address it.
Edoropeni Primary School Head teacher Enock Nkambule said World Vision first capacitated the school committee through its Citizen Voice and Action programme, equipping members with knowledge on education standards and how to engage duty bearers on challenges affecting the school.
Through this process, the committee identified the lack of a computer laboratory as a priority and pursued funding through the Inkhundla Rural Development Fund. The funding facilitated the construction of the laboratory, after which the school approached World Vision Eswatini for assistance with computers and related equipment.
The partnership has therefore moved the school from identifying a gap in digital learning to having a functional facility that learners can use. Speaking during the handover, Minister Nxumalo welcomed the contribution by World Vision Eswatini and other stakeholders, emphasising the importance of exposing children to digital skills from an early age.
He said education investment should not only focus on physical infrastructure and technology but also address conditions that affect children’s ability to learn effectively.
World Vision Eswatini National Director Amos W. Zaindi highlighted school feeding as another important factor in supporting children’s education. He called for school feeding to remain a priority in national planning and budgeting, noting that nutritious meals can support learners’ attendance, concentration, participation and academic performance.
Following the call, Minister Nxumalo committed to establishing a forum involving relevant stakeholders, including World Vision Eswatini, to deliberate on school meals and explore ways of strengthening support for school feeding.
World Vision also acknowledged the contribution of Microprojects towards the construction of the laboratory, alongside the Ministry of Education and Training, school leadership, the community and other partners.
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(Courtesy Pic)
